Dental tape and dental floss are great options for maintaining good oral hygiene. However, with our busy lives, we tend to not go the extra mile when it comes to flossing. Usually, it is your dentist or dental hygienist that will recommend using dental tape or floss, but it is a good idea to try both and see which one you prefer. You can easily incorporate them into your daily routine. Dental floss and tape have some major benefits. At Manor House Dental, we care about the welfare of your teeth and offer suitable treatments according to your needs.
Dental Tape Vs Floss
Both dental tape and floss are useful cleaning products that reach surfaces between your teeth where a toothbrush cannot. Dental tape, also known as ribbon tape, is similar to floss but is broader and flatter than dental floss. Dental floss has a thinner strand of twisted plastic. Deciding which one to go for all depends on which you find to be the most effective and easy to use. If you have large fingers or struggle to handle strands of floss, the dental tape may be a better option for you.
How to Use Dental Floss and Tape
Dental tape is easier to use, as it is thicker. Avoid being too aggressive with the floss as this can harm your gums. When using either floss or tape, floss firm but gently, scraping the tooth from the top set of your teeth to the bottom. Speak to your dentist so they can advise you about using dental tape or dental floss.
When Should You Start Flossing
There isn’t an age limit to start flossing, however, It is recommended that you floss daily in addition to brushing as part of your oral health routine, starting from the age of 12. Some people do not have large enough spaces in between their teeth to use a brush, so flossing can be a good alternative. Speak to your dentist and they can show you the best way to clean your teeth.
How Long Does Flossing Take
Flossing normally takes around 2 minutes to do. However, it can take longer depending on if you have braces or are flossing for the very first time. Most people tend to floss at the same time as brushing their teeth in the morning or evening before going to sleep.
Sore Gums After Flossing
If flossing isn’t something you do every day, there is a risk that your gums will bleed. This can occur if you floss roughly, rapidly or hold the floss too firm across your fingers. Flossing in this manner won’t get your teeth any cleaner and isn’t worth the pain or discomfort of bleeding gums. Bleeding gums may also be a symptom of gingivitis, which is reversible with fluoride treatments and improving your oral hygiene. However, if your gums continue to bleed after flossing for some time, you should get in touch with your dentist for advice.
What Happens If You Don’t Floss
- If you avoid flossing daily, plaque will build up along the gum line. This leads to inflammation, which makes your gums prone to bleeding.
- Gum disease can occur if you don’t remove food particles and plaque from between your teeth. Gum disease is a significant factor in tooth loss
- Brushing your teeth with toothpaste is an essential part of preventing cavities.
- If you don’t remove plaque from your teeth by flossing, tartar can build up which only a dentist can remove. So prevention is the best measure to take.
- Bad breath can occur when bacteria starts to grow when the food is still left, flossing is the best method to remove food particles from your teeth.
Do You Floss Before Or After Brushing
Most people floss after brushing, as brushing your teeth helps to remove plaque and food leaving the tighter spots for flossing. It is important to brush your teeth at least twice a day or after meals which will keep your teeth clean and healthy. As long as you pair both brushing and flossing as part of your routine it does not matter which one you do first.
Book An Appointment
Flossing is a critical part of maintaining good oral health. Whether that is dental tape or dental floss, it is up to you. If these products don’t work for you, don’t hesitate in speaking to your dentist or dental hygienist. At Manor House Dental, we provide a range of dental services that are suitable to your needs including scale and polish, teeth whitening, Invisalign, fillings and much more. If you want to book an appointment for a regular check-up or any other of our services contact us today.